The Importance of a Second Language

The Importance of a Second Language

From the moment we are born, we are instantly being exposed to language. Spoken language is one of the most vital parts of our culture. Due to the vast array of different languages in our world, most people can only communicate with others that speak their own dialect. If we could speak in just one other language, we would subsequently be increasing our ability to communicate with a wider variety of people. This would lead to people being culturally more aware and better equipped with language skills. People who spoke multiple languages would have higher paying jobs, and be overall better educated. I believe people should learn a second language a young age because learning a second language can increase ones chances of success.

Learning a second language should ideally be taken place at a young age. When children are young, they can much easier absorb sights and sounds around them. As young, bright-eyed children, we taken everything we are exposed to. There are no pressures to succeed in school, be excepted by our peers, pay bills, or do any other stressful tasks that accompany most people as they grow. At this age, kids have a tremendous ability to digest knowledge and information. I can think back when my younger brother, Kyle, was just learning to speak. Ironically, his first word was "aqua", the Spanish word for water. It was unbelievable that he understood the meaning of that word before learning a single word of English. For over a year, when thirsty, he would ask for aqua, not water. I find it fascinating that Kyle was so effortlessly able to

Milgram 2

understand and accurately execute words in different languages. My mom, who works with infants as a nurse, has explained to me the importance of exposing infants and small children to multiple languages. Before the age of about two, children can pick up on essentially any language spoken to them. My mom and I have discussed this incredible ability children have at...